PRETORIA - President Jacob Zuma says countries that destabilised parts of Africa are now refusing to accept those fleeing conflict and persecution and says now is the time for them to take responsibility.

He says the flood of African migrants into Europe was triggered by North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) forces, bombarding Libya after the Arab Spring, leading to the killing of Muammar Gadhafi.

He has berated Nato for undermining security in the region, leading to the current crisis sweeping Europe.

Briefing the diplomats in Pretoria, Zuma says it's a painful truth that the refugee crisis was caused by the very countries now refusing to take those seeking shelter.

WATCH: Zuma blames the West for ongoing refugee crisis

"And today those who are part of destabilising that part of the world they won't want to accept the refugees. It's their responsibility, they caused it, they must address it."

Zuma says the African road map to bring peace and stability to Libya was ignored. Nevertheless, South Africa remains willing to help Libya with post-conflicts reconstruction and development.